They are dreaded words to the busy professional: Scheduled maintenance. Simple things like oil changes and transmission flushes are easy to forget while navigating a crowded schedule, when stopping for lunch can seem an inconvenience. But in order to keep your Toyota 4Runner running optimally, it is important to follow a consistent schedule. That way you'll have a vehicle to get you from one errand to the other.
Scheduled maintenance doesn't have to be a headache, particularly if it's treated as the title suggests: On a schedule. Setting aside time for routine check-ups and tweaks will make sure your 4Runner stays out of the repair shop for longer. Consider scheduled maintenance the automotive equivalent of an apple a day.
Toyota recommends a very specific schedule for a 4Runner, beginning with a 5,000-mile/six-month check-up (whichever occurs first). According to its website, for a 2007 4Runner, Toyota recommends performing an oil change, tire rotation and break inspection at this interval, along with a handful of other suggestions depending on driving conditions.
For instance, if you drive while towing or on dirt or dusty roads, additional maintenance may be recommended. That may include re-torquing the propeller shaft bolt or tightening nuts and bolts on the chassis if you drive while towing or inspecting the steering linkage and boots if you spend a lot of time on dirt or dusty roads.
The oil change, tire rotation and break inspection are recommended for every 5,000 miles or six months. It is also good to have the transmission fluid inspected at frequent intervals and changed when your mechanic deems it necessary.
At 15,000 miles or 18 months, Toyota recommends the same procedures and also suggests lubricating the propeller shaft and re-torquing the propeller shaft bolt. That's also a good time to inspect items such as ball joints, brake lines, engine coolant and oil levels.
At 30,000 miles or 36 months, Toyota recommends replacing spark plugs as well as the engine air filter and cabin air filter, if your vehicle is equipped with both. These actions should occur every 30,000 miles.
Other steps are recommended further into the life of the car. For instance, Toyota suggests replacing the timing belt at 90,000 miles.
Complete maintenance schedules for older or newer Toyota 4Runners can be found online. You will also find similar schedules for all makes and models of Toyota cars and trucks. Toyota also provides a link to help you find the nearest dealer, should you have a repair need outside of scheduled maintenance.
